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LOCATION
Bakersfield College Outdoor Theatre
1801 Panorama Drive
Bakersfield, CA 93305
Fall 2025 New Student Convocation
Description
Office of Student Life:
Fall 2025 New Student Convocation
Bakersfield College is excited to usher in the new academic year with our students! As part of that tradition, BC hosts the annual New Student Convocation. The word convocation literally means a “calling together,” which means you will now become part of the Renegade community!
Beyond welcoming you to the community, we will also provide critical information about
- Navigating college life,
- The importance of getting involved on campus,
- Making the most of your time here, and
- Strategies for being successful.
The Convocation activities include a Bridge to BC Family Scavenger Hunt! Families will join their student to explore some of our campus resources!
FREE Parking and Dinner are included (while food supplies last).
Date: Tuesday, August 19, 2025
Check-in: 4:30 PM
Location: Outdoor Theatre, Bakersfield College, Panorama Campus
Recommended parking: at P3 (Solar Lot) at Panorama & Mt. Vernon
Accommodations: are available with advanced notice, please contact Julianna Mullen at julianna.mullen@bakersfieldcollege.edu by August 11, 2025.
For more information please call: (661) 395-4355 or email convocation@bakersfieldcollege.edu
Questions & Answers
RSVPs are highly encouraged, it helps us plan! Please check your official BC student email for an RSVP invitation. If you don’t see it, check your spam or junk folder. Still can’t find it? Email us at convocation@bakersfieldcollege.edu and we’ll help you out.
Check-in & Doors Open: 4:30 PM
Guests Seated: 5:00 PM
Convocation Ceremony Begins: 5:13 PM
Resource Fair and grab-and-go dinner: 6:00 PM
Event Ends: Around 7:13 PM, after Renegade Mascot Gong Ceremony (which equates to 19:13 in military time, symbolizing the year BC was founded), our Renegade Mascot marches and rings the gong. The vibration of the gong symbolized the beginning of our incoming students' academic journey. The gong is once again rung upon confirmation for graduation in the Counseling Center.
We recommend parking in Lot P3 (Solar Lot), located at Panorama Drive & Mt. Vernon Avenue.
No — parking is free during the event.
Just bring yourself and be ready to enjoy the day! We recommend:
Comfortable clothes and shoes
Sunscreen and a hat (it’s typically in the 90s)
A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
Yes! Complimentary grab-and-go meals will be provided following the main program. Food accommodation will be provided based on the RSVP form on a first come first serve basis. Check you BC email to RSVP.
Convocation is not required, but it is highly encouraged. It’s the best way to start your BC journey strong — by meeting staff, discovering resources, and feeling connected to your new campus community.
Unfortunately, no. Convocation is focused on celebration and connection. Staff will be available at the Resource Fair to answer general questions and connect you with services like Counseling, Financial Aid, and more.
Student Supporter Workshops will be offered in both English and Spanish. Topics include how to support your student’s college journey, and a Financial Aid Workshop with live support session will also be available.
August 19 is dedicated to New Student Convocation, where we’ll offer general campus support such as the Student Supporter Workshops (in English and Spanish) and a Financial Aid Workshop with live support.
However, Bakersfield College will host Extended Hours for approximately two weeks to provide expanded in-person support services: 📅 Dates: August 18, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27, 28 🕠 Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM (evening support) 📍 Location: Panorama Campus (open M–R, 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM, plus Extended Hours in the evening)
Registration assistance
Financial aid application support
Academic advising and counseling
Prerequisite clearance
Access to essential student resources
Spotlighted services to help you start the semester strong
The Renegade Nexus Farmers Market will take place from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM (or while supplies last) at the Outdoor Theater entrance.
Students and community members can pick up free fresh produce and food items — first come, first served.
This year, it’s on the same day as New Student Convocation, so come grab your groceries in the morning and return for the celebration in the evening!
Yes! Families, friends, and children are all welcome. There will be programming for both students and their supporters.
Absolutely! While the event is geared toward new students, it’s open and inviting for everyone. Children are welcome, and supporter workshops will be offered in English and Spanish during the Resource Fair.
